5th measles case reported; others at St. Joseph at risk

A fifth Orange County resident has been diagnosed with measles and public health officials on Friday warned that others may have been exposed earlier this week at St. Joseph Hospital in Orange.

Health Care Agency spokeswoman Nicole Stanfield said it’s unknown how the unidentified adult contracted the illness. She said the patient’s vaccination history is also uncertain.

The person was at St. Joseph’s emergency department on Sunday from 4:30-8:30 p.m. and Monday from 7:30 p.m.-5 a.m.

Officials said the risk of getting sick after brief encounters is low, but as a precaution those who were at St. Joseph at the same time should review if they’ve received the MMR vaccine for measles, mumps, and rubella. If not, they should discuss getting vaccinated with a medical provider.

They should also monitor themselves for symptoms, which can develop between seven and 21 days after exposure, starting with a fever, cough and runny nose. Two to four days later, a red, blotchy rash develops, usually starting around the ears and hairline and then moving to the face, torso and limbs.

Anyone with symptoms should immediately contact a doctor.

In December, the first local measles case was diagnosed, with three more following in January and February. Two of the patients had traveled to Asia. In a typical year, Orange County sees no more than one case.

State officials have also seen a surge in cases and have noted that about half were children and young adults who were intentionally not vaccinated.

User Agreement

Keep it civil and stay on topic. No profanity, vulgarity, racial
slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about
tragedies will be blocked. By posting your comment, you agree to
allow Orange County Register Communications, Inc. the right to
republish your name and comment in additional Register publications
without any notification or payment.